One study, for example, ranked Canadian cities based on income and life satisfaction. It found that in the richer cities (Toronto, Calgary, Ottawa) people were the least satisfied with their lives, whereas in the smaller and poorer ones (Charlottetown, Quebec City and especially St. Johnís) people were far and away the most happy. Another study ranked peopleís estimates of the likelihood that a neighbour would return a wallet they found containing $100, as a proxy for social trust, which predicts happiness more reliably than income.

New topic that was discussed at the United Nations, with talks of the Gross National Happiness instead of Gross National Product. According to the studies, we're a pretty happy country. I think the top 5 really goes to show what type of political system (constituional monarchies) exhibits better well-being.

Just kidding. I think. Hopefully I haven't been too effected by the usual Toronto gruffness. I remember when I first came here it felt a little unsettling to see so many stern faces marching around downtown. I think it's a happier place now that so much of the world has come here.

Anyway - I think this sort of approach to economics is great. We ignore the true cost of things far too easily.

Just kidding. I think. Hopefully I haven't been too effected by the usual Toronto gruffness. I remember when I first came here it felt a little unsettling to see so many stern faces marching around downtown. I think it's a happier place now that so much of the world has come here.

Anyway - I think this sort of approach to economics is great. We ignore the true cost of things far too easily.

Exactly, I'd much rather live in a more relaxed world measured by GDH instead of GDP, where my living standards are accounted for rather than how much I contribute to the economy in pure dollar values.

Fully expected to see the Scandinavian countries in the top 4 spots... and I wasn't disappointed. Some people look at their high income tax and shudder but I honestly think that the way their societies are set up are close to ideal. You can actually SEE where your taxes are going. And people seem to be much less money-driven in those countries.

On another note... I was talking to a guy here at work who just came over from St. John's and I couldn't believe what the house prices are like out there now compared to 10 years ago. Holy crap the oil industry has really changed that city (and province).

Fully expected to see the Scandinavian countries in the top 4 spots... and I wasn't disappointed. Some people look at their high income tax and shudder but I honestly think that the way their societies are set up are close to ideal. You can actually SEE where your taxes are going. And people seem to be much less money-driven in those countries.

On another note... I was talking to a guy here at work who just came over from St. John's and I couldn't believe what the house prices are like out there now compared to 10 years ago. Holy crap the oil industry has really changed that city (and province).

Great countries with great environments.. and great women. Not only are they incredibly beautiful but much more down to earth than your usual beautiful gal